Breakout Performances – 2017
Josh Carlton 6’8” Team Loaded Va 16s
(South Central HS)
Carlton has just been invited to the NBA Top 100 camp, and had a lot of people asking, “Who is this kid'” Carlton has a great frame, and is just scratching the surface. As with most young bigs, Carlton has fought with confidence issues in the past but he put that all behind him here. Carlton showed a great motor chasing blocked shots, and rebounds. He also has touch and solid hands in the paint, we are eager to watch Carlton as he continues to get stronger.
Jaylen Cameron 6’3” Team Loaded NC 16s
(West Florence HS)
Cameron had a mini peak onto the scene during last year’s Phenom Summer Grind when we caught him dunking on Jay Huff. Fast Forward close to a year, and Cameron decided to go ahead and stay on the stage. Throughout the weekend, Cameron averaged 18 points. He displayed an ability to be a high level defender and attack the rim in the half court.
Josh Hopkins 6’4” NC Court Generals
(Dudley HS)
This is the second time we have seen Hopkins, and both times he has showed out. Hopkins came out the gates swinging on Friday night as he scored 24 points, on 6 made 3s, in the opening round upset of Upward Stars SE. Hopkins has great size, and can shoot the ball with deep range and confidence. Hopkins has a solid handle in the half court, and enough length and athleticism to be a good defender. Expect to hear a lot more from Hopkins coming up, he has shown that this is no fluke and D1s need to take him consistently.
Jordan Cross 6’6” River City Reign 17s
(Millwood School)
Cross had a solid year at Millwood School, and a good performance at the Virginia Top 80. However, this event he stepped up to the line. For starters, Cross is and athletic 6’6” with a 6’11” wing span. He defends the perimeter and knows how to cut down the passing lanes. Offensively Cross’s ability really stood out. He is a great shooter with soft touch. When playing with the 16s he showed the ability to attack the rim and finish at multiple levels. At the 17s he showed that he wanted the ball, to take the big shot. Cross gets better each time out, watch for him to continue his rise.
Jimmie Sanders 5’8” Wake County Basketball
(Neuse Charter)
Sanders has been on our radar for a couple years. Coming off a year that saw him average 20 points and 8 assists per game. He had a good showing at the North Carolina Top 80, and has really stepped up big playing for WCBA 16s. Sanders is a leader from the get go, he plays with a chip on his shoulder that trickles down to his team mates. Sanders is able to defend the ball for 94 feet and create offense in the half court.